WHY ABA IS HARMFUL

What is ABA?

ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysis, is a type of therapy that uses rewards and punishments to change a person's behavior. It is often used to treat children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but it can also be used to treat other conditions such as intellectual disability, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and behavioral problems.

How Does ABA Work?

ABA is based on the principle of operant conditioning, which states that behavior is influenced by its consequences. If a behavior is followed by a reward, it is more likely to be repeated. If a behavior is followed by a punishment, it is less likely to be repeated.

In ABA, therapists use rewards and punishments to shape a person's behavior. For example, a therapist might give a child a sticker every time they say "please" or "thank you." Or, a therapist might take away a child's favorite toy every time they throw a tantrum.

Why is ABA Harmful?

There are a number of reasons why ABA is harmful.

ABA is Based on a Flawed Understanding of Behavior

ABA is based on the idea that behavior is caused by external factors, such as rewards and punishments. However, research has shown that behavior is also caused by a variety of internal factors, such as genetics, biology, and personal history.

This means that ABA is often ineffective at changing behavior. In fact, it can actually make behavior worse. For example, a study by the University of California, Los Angeles found that ABA can increase the risk of aggression and self-injury in children with autism.

ABA is Dehumanizing

ABA is dehumanizing because it treats people as if they are animals that can be trained. This can lead to a loss of self-esteem and a sense of worthlessness.

In addition, ABA can be very stressful for children. They may feel like they are constantly being watched and judged. They may also feel like they have to suppress their natural behaviors in order to avoid punishment.

ABA Can Lead to Long-Term Problems

ABA can have a number of long-term problems, including:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)


• Depression


• Anxiety


• Relationship problems


• Difficulty trusting others

What Are the Alternatives to ABA?

There are a number of alternative therapies that are more effective and less harmful than ABA. These therapies include:

• Occupational therapy


• Speech therapy


• Physical therapy


• Social skills training


• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)


• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

These therapies focus on helping people develop the skills they need to succeed in life, rather than trying to control their behavior. They are also more respectful of people's autonomy and dignity.

Conclusion

ABA is a harmful therapy that can have a number of negative consequences for people with autism. There are a number of alternative therapies that are more effective and less harmful than ABA. Parents should carefully consider the risks and benefits of ABA before deciding whether or not to use it for their child.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs that ABA is harmful?

There are a number of signs that ABA is harmful, including:

• Increased aggression and self-injury


• Loss of self-esteem


• Depression


• Anxiety


• Relationship problems


• Difficulty trusting others

What are the alternatives to ABA?

There are a number of alternative therapies that are more effective and less harmful than ABA, including:

• Occupational therapy


• Speech therapy


• Physical therapy


• Social skills training


• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)


• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

How can I find a therapist who does not use ABA?

There are a number of resources that can help you find a therapist who does not use ABA. These resources include:

• The Autism Society of America


• The National Autism Association


• The American Psychological Association

What are my rights as a parent of a child with autism?

As a parent of a child with autism, you have the right to:

• Choose the therapy that you believe is best for your child


• Be informed about the risks and benefits of ABA


• Refuse ABA for your child

What can I do if I believe that my child has been harmed by ABA?

If you believe that your child has been harmed by ABA, you can:

• File a complaint with the state licensing board


• Sue the therapist who provided ABA services


• Contact the Autism Society of America or the National Autism Association for support